From Tombs to Tales: Discovering Cairo's City of the Dead

The history of The City of the Dead dates back to the Islamic era when it became a burial site for the elite, similar to Westminster Abbey graveyard in England, as it serves as the final resting place for sultans, scholars, and writers of the East, and over centuries, it has evolved into a repository of Egypt's Islamic history, housing the tombs of notable figures. Continuously from the medieval era to the present.

The site has witnessed various dynasties, each leaving its architectural imprint, from the Mamluks to the Ottomans, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Navigating to the City of the Dead

 

 

Location and Travel Tips :

Situated east of Cairo, various transportation options can easily reach the City of the Dead. Visitors can take the Cairo Metro, with El Sayyida Aisha as the nearest station, or choose taxi rides and carpooling operators in Egypt like Uber, Careem, and Didi. Alternatively, you can take the hassle out of your travel plans by joining one of our reach itineraries to medieval Cairo.

The area is a stone's throw from the historic citadel, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring Cairo's rich Islamic heritage. However, to navigate this vast graveyard, you should ensure you have a reliable guide.

Let Sun Pyramids Tours guide you through this mesmerizing necropolis, ensuring a seamless and door-to-door experience from your hotel. Book your adventure with us today and embark on a journey like no other! 

 

Geography and Key Facts :.

Covering over four miles, The City of the Dead is a vast necropolis divided into several sections, each with its distinct historical significance. The area is not just a burial ground; it's a living community where people reside among the tombs.

 The site showcases a mix of architecture, from grand mausoleums to humble graves, reflecting Egypt's rich cultural heritage. It's a place where history and daily life blend seamlessly.

 

 

Must-See Marvels: Attractions in the City of the Dead

 

The City of the Dead is home to numerous attractions that captivate visitors. Highlights include the Mausoleum of Sultan Qaitbay, renowned for its intricate Mamluk architecture, an

d the Mosque-Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i, a revered pilgrimage site. To explore these sites properly, it is essential to understand that the necropolis is divided into two main sections: The Southern Cemetery and The Northern Cemetery, each with its unique historical landmarks and stories.

 

The Southern Cemetery:

 

The oldest and largest necropolis dating back to 642 CE, begins from the Cairo Citadel in the north and extends to the Al Basatin district in the south. Some of the finest monuments in the Southern Cemetery are:

 

The Sayyida Nafisa Mosque

Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

Hosh al-Basha

Sayyida Aisha Mosque

Mashhad of Sayyida Ruqayya

Mausoleum of Shajar al-Durr

Mausoleum of Amir Qawsun

Zawiya of Shaykh Zayn al-Din

and Yusuf Sultaniyya Mausoleum.

 

The Northern Cemetery:

Mostly established during the Mamluk era (1250 – 1517 AD), is known as the Mamluk Desert Cemetery. It is located between the Kobri Al Ebageah to the east and Shari'a Salah Salem to the west in Cairo. This area contains Bab Al-Wazir's and Bab Al Nasr's cemetery. Some notable monuments in the Northern Cemetery include:

The funerary complex of Sultan Qaytbay

Khanqah-Mausoleum of Sultan Barsbay

Khanqah of Faraj ibn Barquq

Funerary complex of Emir Qurqumas

Mausoleum of Qansuh Abu Sa'id

the funerary complex of Sultan Inal

Qubbat Afandina

Tomb and Khanqah of Khawand Tughay (or Umm Anuk)

and Mausoleum of Tarabay al-Sharifi (in the Bab al-Wazir Cemetery).

 

These remarkable City of the Dead Attractions offer an immersive experience of Egypt's rich historical and architectural legacy, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

 

 

Etymology and The Many Names of the City of the Dead

 

 

The City of the Dead, also known as Al-Qarafa, derives its name from Arabic, meaning "cemetery" or "graveyard." Over time, it has acquired various titles, reflecting its multifaceted history and significance. The name Al-Qarafa is a site name originating from a Yemeni clan descended from the Banu Ma'afir tribe, the Banu Qarafa ibn Ghusn ibn Wali clan, which once owned land in the ancient city of Fustat. After the famine of the 11th century, the area was abandoned and repurposed into a burial ground. The name Qarafa became synonymous with Cairo's urban cemeteries and remains highly specific to this region.

 

In conclusion, the City of the Dead is not just a cemetery but a living embodiment of Cairo's Islamic heritage. 

Why not make your journey truly memorable with Sun Pyramids Tours? Our expert guides will lead you through this medieval urban landscape, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Book your tour today and enter the heart of Cairo's timeless treasures! 

Why do I book with Sun Pyramids Tours?

 

Egypt warmly welcomes visitors with its majestic Nile River, desert landscapes, and the fertile Delta, along with its remarkable and awe-inspiring landmarks. With our Egypt tour packages, you’ll have the chance to uncover the most mesmerizing wonders of the land of the Pharaohs, including the iconic Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, Abu Simbel, the Karnak temples, and so much more. The Nile River is also the perfect setting for one of our Nile cruises, where you can sail through history, admiring the magnificent monuments between Luxor and Aswan. The opportunity is right here for you—don’t miss out, book with us today!